First time for my wife and me at Lit'l Pepper, and being originally from New York, I'm hard to please when it comes to deli/bodega food. But Lit'l Pepper did not disappoint! From the moment we walked in, we were promptly greeted and made to feel welcome throughout the entire experience. I ordered the Sexy Boy, and this sandwich was MASSIVE! The pastrami was hot, tender, and falling apart in all the best ways--juicy, flavorful, with just the right amount of grease. I'm usually not a fan of banana peppers, so I ordered them on the side. But once I added them to the sandwich, I had to admit...they made it even better! Perfect balance of flavor. Since it was our first visit, they gave us two soups to sample along with gluten-free chocolate chip cookies. The soups were amazing, and the cookies were a nice touch. Small, homey spot. Fast service. Great customer service. Delicious food. And a clean restroom--always a plus! Couldn't ask for much more. Lit'l Pepper definitely earned a return visit! read more

Lit'l Pepper Gourmet - Sexy boy sandwich - Delis Near Me - San Diego, California

Amazing sandwich shop! The staff is always welcoming and friendly, and the menu is absolutely incredible. I highly recommend trying the Sexy Boy sandwich--definitely one of my favorites! During one of my visits, I also got to meet the owner. His funny banter and great personality really helped create a fun, welcoming atmosphere. Great food, great people, and an awesome vibe. Definitely worth checking out! read more

There's a love hate relationship I have with Lit'l Pepper over the years. I don't come here super often because of the hours. They open really early for breakfast and don't stay open late, and close daily at 2pm. So we usually visit if me and the hubs can grab lunch together. They have so many sandwiches to offer, it's hard not to try many to find your favorite! The sandwiches we've tried: The Brisk - (part of the premier line) I usually order this sandwich. It's a full sandwich and not offered with the half sandwich soup offer. Need to remember ask for them to make it not spicy. French dip - (a classic) I just absolutely love the au jus. Enough said! The horseradish does have a slight kick to it. The Tuscan - (house favorite) delish chicken pesto sandwich The Barcelona - (house favorite) we got this on the last visit and it was an extremely dry sandwich. The Pastrami - (gourmet sandwich) - we also got this sandwich last visit, it was also very dry. I think it also had a spicy mustard, it doesn't include it in the description, but it was too spicy for me to eat which completely sucked! The Comeback - (house favorite) hubs like this one too - similar to the Italian. The Italian torpedo - (gourmet sandwich) the hubs favorite. He always comes back to this one. What I hate... sandwiches are spicy when I don't expect them to be. I don't always remember to ask if there is anything spicy used when it doesn't explicitly state it in the description. Lunch can also get expensive very quickly with a full sandwich and large soup. (~$30) What we do love are the soups! They offer different soups daily. The hubs love the tomato bisque (Tuesdays only). The chili is my absolute favorite and it's offered daily! Absolute yum with shredded cheese and chopped red onion. Also love... the tiny cookies that are included with your sandwich! Usually a small chocolate chip, but if you get a full sandwich, a chocolate chip and snickerdoodle cookie! The sandwich shop is tucked into an industrial park complex. Small tables inside the shop and several small tables outside. Usually you can find parking. They're not open on the weekends, and during the week, only until 2pm. So definitely no late lunches and put your order in early! 2026: 40 read more

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I had the pleasure of enjoying the "sexy boy" sandwich and I can in all honesty say that it was one of the best sandwiches I've ever had in my life. Two thumbs way up! Can't wait to enjoy their food again! read more

What a hidden gem Lit'L Pepper Gourmet is. We happened to have checked with Yelp for a sandwich shop nearby Clairemont area and found it on a more industrial street of businesses! As we entered, the lady working the counter quickly greeted us cheerfully! No kidding! She was genuinely happy with a bubbly personality. As we looked over the different sandwich options, she asked questions and gave us suggestions! We ended up ordering the Italian Torpedo and the Brisk! Holy Smokes!! They were DELICIOUS sandwiches!! We got to try their soups of the day as well. Great flavors! White Cheddar poblano was my favorite. The restaurant has been around for 25 years! Family owned! That's a huge accomplishment! They will cater to your business. Online ordering is available. They are open Monday through Friday from 6am until 2pm. The restaurant has indoor dining, but limited outdoor seating. We will be back soon for other menu options! read more

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Lil Pepper Gourmet is one of my must stop places every time I'm in San Diego for work. Don't let the long lunch line scare you away. They have the ordering process down to a science, and the line moves surprisingly fast. Just make sure you know what you want before you get to the counter because they'll ask for your sandwich, bread, and any modifications, and they're ready to keep things moving! My go to is the California Torpedo, loaded with turkey, ham, roast beef, lettuce, tomato, cucumbers, red onions, cheese, mayo, mustard, and Italian dressing. The ingredients are always fresh, and you can taste the quality in every bite. This is definitely not your average chain sandwich. One warning... these sandwiches are HUGE! There are no cute, dainty bites happening here. I practically have to unhinge my jaw just to take a bite, and if you're eating at work like I was, you may find yourself facing the wall so your coworkers don't witness the sandwich wrestling match. Great quality, generous portions, fast service, and absolutely delicious. If you're looking for an amazing sandwich in San Diego, Lil Pepper Gourmet is well worth the stop! read more

Lit'l Pepper Gourmet - California Torpedo - Delis Near Me - San Diego, California

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I was craving a bagel and discovered this breakfast place tucked away in a business area. I went early in the morning before work and the service was very friendly and welcoming. I ordered the salmon lox bagel and it was a hefty and filling breakfast. There was a lot of salmon packed into the bagel and it I really liked how it was packed with veggies as well making it a filling but refreshing breakfast. They have a large breakfast menu and the food is amazing. Would come back again! read more

Lit'l Pepper Gourmet - Bagel Lox - Delis Near Me - San Diego, California

Amazing fresh food. Clean restaurant and bathroom. Quick and helpful service. Been here several times over the years and I've never been disappointed with any of their sandwiches or soups. They even have delicious breakfast options too. Bacon, egg & cheese croissant was . Hidden in a business complex has dine in area. Most people do takeout. They also cater!! My job has ordered from them before and they were so yummy! read more

Lit'l Pepper Gourmet - Bacon Egg & Cheese Croissant - Delis Near Me - San Diego, California

Amazing lunch place tucked into an industrial park. There are parking spaces although the lot is busy. Wide variety of sandwiches, wraps, salads, and I think they also have soup. Very fresh ingredients. Generous portions. They even include a small cookie and a few bites of salad ( I typically eat there but take out is of course an option). Prices are average. I have not encountered a staff who are any friendlier and more helpful than these wonderful people. I started trying them as they are near my new office location. I'm now having lunch there a lot. read more

Lit'l Pepper Gourmet - Chicken Caesar wrap. Fresh and lots of chicken. - Delis Near Me - San Diego, California

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Reliable, quick and has the friendlist staff possible. their sandwhiches are all massive and come with a cookie to help justify the higher price tag ($16-$18 per sandwhich) read more

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7/17/2026- my second time here. I would go here more often but they close at 2pm and I'm still at work. I had the day off today. Friend and I went there and 5 stars. Last time I was here it was super busy and no where to sit. Today around 11:40am, half the tables were available. Walk in and grab a menu or look at the menu board, stand in line and order the food. Pay at the register. They bring the food to the table. 5 stars. Great food and service. Not small sandwiches but the sandwiches are at the higher end money wise. We had the following: The Barcelona for $17.25 and the Roast Beef & Turkey for $16.95. Both came with a tiny salad and a cookie. Loved every single bite! Check photos out. read more

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Hands down the best sub I've ever had. It was our first time at Little Pepper Gourmet, and from the moment we walked in, everyone was so welcoming. They even brought us two soups to try, which was such a thoughtful touch and made us feel right at home. The food is on another level. The ingredients are incredibly fresh, the quality is amazing, and every flavor is perfectly balanced. The sub I had honestly tasted like something you'd get in Italy--it was absolutely incredible. Every bite was better than the last. The prices are very fair, especially considering the quality you're getting. This is one of those places that's worth every penny, and I can already tell we'll be coming back all the time. The only thing to keep in mind is that they're only open Monday through Friday, from 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and they're closed on weekends. So plan ahead! If you're looking for an amazing sandwich shop in San Diego, do yourself a favor and come here. I honestly don't think I'll be going anywhere else for subs after this. The ambiance is such a cool Italian vibe. Shout out to Amber for amazing service and being so welcoming and professional! read more

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If you've ever driven past the Panera on Clairemont Mesa Blvd and thought that was your only option, keep going. Make those extra turns. Lit'l Pepper Gourmet Deli is located in a commercial complex around the corner. I ordered The Club, stacked with turkey, bacon, cheese and veggies. The sandwiches come with a chocolate chip cookie as well. The menu is expansive, including breakfast, salads, wraps. I have only tried the sandwiches, but will come back and try their breakfast soon. The staff is always welcoming, and genuinely happy to serve you. This is a true mom-and-pop spot, and will definitely add to the mix of my lunch and maybe breakfast joints. read more

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Great little place for lunch. The service at the counter was really friendly and kind. There are sooooo many sandwiches on the menu will take you a minute to decide what you want, but they are so nice and patient. I got the Barcelona Sandwich it was really good! Chicken, tomato Dijon, on ciabatta bread. It was such a huge sandwich had to take half home and keep it for dinner. lol I really want to try other sandwiches and prices reasonable for what you get. Fresh ingredients. read more

Lit'l Pepper Gourmet - My sandwich - Delis Near Me - San Diego, California

I enjoy a variety of excellent sandwiches and soups at this 30-year-old establishment. A totally family-run restaurant featuring catering. See truck in photos. Super friendly staff, great parking, and always clean. Free cookies with every purchase. BTW, B sure 2 try the Chili. 6: 15 AM until 1:30 PM/ Closed Weekends. read more

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The customer service here was top tier!!!The staff was very welcoming and attentive. We walked in before the lunch rush around 10:40am. Everyone was busy but still very attentive as we walked in. The manager (can't remember his name) was so kind and gave my husband and I some cookies( for free) and soup to try since we stated it was our first time while we waited for our order. My husband ordered the sexy boy pastrami and I had the brisket sandwich. We both got some bottle drinks and some chips. The sandwiches are massive. They do not skimp on toppings. My husband's pastrami sandwich was the best pastrami I've had in my life. My sandwich was good too, although I prefer maybe a little less blue cheese. All in all, ended up taking half of mine home. You definitely can probably share or do the half soup and sandwich deal they have. Anyway, I really enjoyed everything. We will definitely be back!!!! read more

Lit'l Pepper Gourmet - Sexy boy pastrami sandwich - Delis Near Me - San Diego, California

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They absolutely crushed it with their gobbler sandwich. I saw it on Instagram and I had to go there right away and it didn't disappoint. They had juicy turkey, delicious stuffing, cranberry and gravy. It's honestly one of the best seasonal items I've ever had. My family will be visiting soon and I'm definitely gonna take him there to have one of these. Highly recommend.! ...... oh one last thing. The lady who took my order was AMAZING!! Great customer service!! read more

Lit'l Pepper Gourmet - The gobbler sandwich! In all its glory - Delis Near Me - San Diego, California

Great affordable sandwiches. Staff is very efficient and pumps out their sandwiches. Highly recommend read more

Lit'l Pepper Gourmet - Menu - Delis Near Me - San Diego, California

Damn good sandwiches! I'm gluten free and got a tuna sandwich on gf bread. It was delicious. Gf bread can be dry and fall apart, but their bread is delicious. Also LOVED the gf chocolate chip cookie. I could not tell it was different from a regular cookie. This place is not in my part of town but I'm looking for an excuse to come back. read more

Came here for lunch and there were so many options to choose from. I went with the half and half: jalapeno chicken and the gumbo. The staff were very diligent and the way they ran things was tight knit. I got my food in a short time and the plate was filled. Good thing I didn't order a whole sandwich or whole soup because I definitely wouldn't have been able to finish. The place was filled with people grabbing a bite for lunch and that's how you know this place is a hit. There are plenty of seats and tables to choose from indoor and outdoor. I will be coming back tomorrow with the wife to try something else read more

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Good quality Chicken Salad, fresh bread. I look forward to trying other sandwiches and salads.

Amazing! We had Lit'l Pepper Gourmet cater a 70 person baby shower and it was so good. Amber was so sweet and helpful when planning the shower food wise. The sandwich platters were a hit -- very high quality food. Highly recommend them read more

The best vegetarian bahn mi I've had! Be sure to add the sun-dried tomato spread and spicy relish. This place is a little on the expensive side, but it's worth it! The staff is very friendly. They're typically pretty busy, so I'd order ahead if possible. read more

Excellent casual lunch place! I went here with coworkers for lunch and it's great for groups because you order from a counter, making it easy to pay separately. They have indoor and outdoor seating options. Be ready, because the sandwiches are massive! I ordered the club and was barely able to finish half; and it was so delicious. My coworkers got the cordon bleu, the avo, and the half and half combo of French dip sandwich and French onion soup. Everyone was happy and full, no notes. One coworker is gluten free and they do have gluten free choices! The servers were so friendly and helpful. Highly recommend for a great lunch! read more

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Not very easy to get to, but once you're there... The TGI Fridays of out-of-the-way restaurants Super large menu, everything from salads to sandwiches to gumbo... Almost everything we tried was delicious Had the turkey CLUB sandwich and chicken gumbo, and it was out of this world We'll definitely come back and adding it to the work lunch menu read more

I can't tell you how many times I've driven by here and wondered what they have and if it's good. Then a few days ago my hubs suggested we try it as someone told him about the Chili. So we stopped by yesterday and ordered Sandwiches and Chili to go. Everyone working there were so helpful and friendly. Looking at the prices, I thought it was expensive. You get your moneys worth though. These are big sandwiches. I could only eat half of my Club. Chili is good and thick. They gave us cookie samples and they are delicious. It's very roomy and clean inside with plenty of tables. My only complaint is more of a me problem. The counter is high and I'm short. It was hard for me to see the employees when I ordered. It all worked out though and we were all happy with our orders. read more

Lit'l Pepper Gourmet - #12 The Club aka The TBA - Delis Near Me - San Diego, California

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It was absolutely delicious, the service was fast, everyone was very kind. They are very friendly and it's a good place to go by yourself or bring a bunch of people with you. read more

Lit'l Pepper Gourmet - Jurassic Pork, half and half firework and white cheddar poblano soup. - Delis Near Me - San Diego, California

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If you work in the area then I'm sure you know this gem. It's a solid deli that has delicious soups, salads and sandwiches. They're quick and efficient and the staff is always kind. read more

Lit'l Pepper Gourmet - The Barcelona - Delis Near Me - San Diego, California

Food, service and ambiance was the best! Everything we ordered was so tasty and fresh. Everyone working was so friendly and service was so quick being that it was lunch time and they were busy. Definitely will be coming back (: read more

If you know, you know this hidden gem is where locals and busy bees flock when the lunchtime hunger hits hard! Around here, everyone knows this is the spot to grab a sandwich big enough to tame even the hungriest belly. Large salads or breakfast for the early risers. They also have soups of the day ready for the fall season. Heads up though come lunchtime, it's a jungle out there. Think long lines, hungry hippos, and the sweet smell of sandwiches calling your name. But don't panic these folks run a tight ship. Lines move lightning-fast, and you've got options galore: preorder to save time, dine inside, or snag a spot on the patio when the sun's out. The setup is smart all the tables hug the edges of the restaurant to make room for everyone, and the parking lot is spacious enough to handle the crowd. These guys know their craft and are fully equipped to feed literally everyone. I had my eye on the legendary Sexy Boy sandwich (how can you not want to order that?!), but since I was on the go and it didn't look car-friendly, I'll save that masterpiece for next time. Instead, I went for one of their top 10 irresistible creations: the Pastrami on Rye. Fresh, crunchy veggies and perfectly toasted rye wrapped around a mountain of juicy pastrami it was everything my growling stomach had been dreaming of. Pure sandwich bliss. The addition of banana peppers gave some texture difference as all the flavors danced merry in my mouth. The cherry on top? The staff here are absolute gems warm, welcoming, and clearly proud of what they do. Just remember, they close early and take weekends off, so plan ahead, come hungry, and prepare to leave very, very happy. read more

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Gloria, thank you for making the best sandwich I've ever had in my life. Honest to God, it was absolutely glorious. Then I open it up and there's a side salad and a cookie too? I was not expecting that, but man, what a treat. You seriously made my day. Thank you thank you. Looking forward to seeing you guys soon. read more

Lit'l Pepper Gourmet - Turkey #12 The Club aka The TBA Extra turkey - Delis Near Me - San Diego, California

From out of town, working, love trying local restaurants. Decided to hit up his deli. It was fantastic. The food is great...ordered the pastrami/corned beef sandwich (no bread), Thai chicken wrap (no tortilla), Chinese chicken salad. ALL OF THESE ARE BOMB !! The service was excellent, very accommodating to my dietary needs. Thank you!!!! read more

What a nice spot for breakfast and lunch. It is located behind Panera. Parking is easy. You order at the counter. There is space to eat inside and outside. We ordered the gumbo soup and a bagel sandwich. Both were excellent. You get a little side salad with each. The people are super friendly. I know they get crowded - but it moves quickly. The place is nice and clean. Plus you get a little cookie with your order. We will be back to try more! read more

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We ate here today and we were very pleased. The sandwiches were huge and enough for dinner too. The down side is the price. Lunch for four plus a tip was just under $100. Ouch. read more

The food is fresh hot and good!! It was served quickly. And the staff is very friendly and welcoming! Will definitely be back !!! Can't leave a photo cause I ate all my food. Next time ! Highly recommend this spot! read more

On a quest for a great sandwich and came across Lit'l Pepper Gourmet. What an amazing find and so glad I stopped in. Ordered the #10 Turkey Sun-dried and all I can say is: YUM!!!! You cannot go wrong with this place. They have an extensive menu of delicious sandwiches, salads, breakfast, soups, etc. The service was amazing and sandwiches are epic! read more

Lit'l Pepper Gourmet - #10 Turkey Sun-dried - Delis Near Me - San Diego, California

I want to hear with my co-workers it's walking distance from our Kearny Mesa office. We rarely go into the office so I'm not really familiar with all of the lunch spots, but I guess this is the top rated place by many of our co-workers. It's about in 8 minute walk which on a nice day is a great break from the office. It is a cute casual deli style setup. With a pretty tasty variety of sandwiches Kama soups and salads. I ordered the brisk, which came with blue cheese and caramelized onions. We also got a few soups to share, I was honestly so full I didn't even get a chance to try the soup. The sandwiches are pretty filling, specially for lunch so I took half to go. We all loved our food. Honestly this place exceeded my expectations. It also has a very mom and pop family feel, which just makes me feel really comfortable and welcome to. Highly recommend this place if you were in the area! read more

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Amazing little gem! Vegetarian sandwiches were flavorful & the freshly baked cookies were the best I've had in a while. On top of that, the service was great and the owner/manager was very welcoming!! read more

Lit'l Pepper Gourmet - Feta Cheese The Roast - Delis Near Me - San Diego, California

Went there again today and loved their roast beef sandwich. The service is fast and great. Food is consistent. Loved them!!!

We were on our way to the Zoo and went to pick up a few sandwiches. This place did not dissapoint! Check it out. Huge sandwiches! We got the Sexy Boy and the King Cobb This is one on those places where you take a bite and your eyes close, cause the food is that good. Did I mention the have cookies! Highly recommend the Carmel pecan. Helpful and friendly staff. read more